Reviews

Major League Baseball 2K5

Picking which mode to play took me longer than picking what team to be, because each one is more compelling than the last. We all know what to expect out of franchise mode, with full seasons, tons of stats, farm systems, and the like. Gamecast lets you simulate games, but also allows you to jump into them whenever you want. In Your Face is a takeoff of exhibition games, where you get points from accomplishing challenges to unlock mini-games/teams/cheats in your Skybox. This became a favorite of mine, even though I'm normally a franchise guy; I guess it's because I so rarely complete a full season.

The Home Run Derby uses the new swing styles to its advantage, making it even more fun than usual. My favorite Derby mode lets you pick three sluggers to make up your team (you only have so many points to snag them with, so you can't have all superstars). When you hit a homer, whoever's at the plate for your opponent takes damage. You've got to tag out hitters to keep them from being knocked out. A stamina bar keeps you from using the power swing every time. This mode is a great source of multiplayer fun, and can be played online to boot.

Speaking of online, MLB 2K5 is one step closer to what we dreamed about for online sports games. You can play a full 162 game season in an online league, or stick to tournaments or single-game contests. Visual Concepts has always been at the forefront of online play, so it's nice to see it continue to strive.

ESPN or ESPNO?

You might notice the lack of ESPN in the name. That was a late decision by Take 2, but rest assured that the ESPN production is still in full effect. Jon Miller and Joe Morgan are still a great commentary team, and I'm surprised how smooth their lines flow. On Xbox, you can even use custom soundtracks to play when specific players go up to bat. Though I must say, the licensed music in here is better than I would've expected.

The game has lots of replays and cutscenes, showing various camera angles to spice up the action. Chase Cam shows the dust kicked up as you sprint to beat the tag. The K-Zone shows all the embarrassing whiffs in all their glory. Relatively high-poly fans will sing along in the seventh-inning stretch.

Honestly, Major League Baseball 2K5 has made me a fan of baseball video games again. I haven't enjoyed a game so much since Basewars on the NES -- and this one doesn't even have robots! I honestly didn't think so much fun could be injected into every nuance of baseball. Kush Games deserves kudos for this accomplishment. Those of you that have left the baseball fold would be wise to put down $20. MLB 2K5 might just win you over. Let's hope this franchise continues to improve next year (mid-games saves, perhaps?), despite what will surely be a lack of competition.